The Relevance of Relational Leadership

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore one aspect of teacher retention and wellbeing. It looks at the role educational leaders play in supporting staff and building relationships.  This paper explores how a relational approach to educational leadership, and a leader’s emotional intelligence, can impact teacher retention through decreasing stress and burnout and increasing a sense of belonging and job satisfaction. Strong educational leaders should build relationships, display empathy, practice self-reflection, and have excellent communication skills. Using a variety of emotional intelligence skills, and purposeful relationship building, educational leaders can increase teacher wellbeing and retention.